Karuma Wildlife Reserve


Nestled in the Kiryandongo district, formerly Masindi district, on the western side of Uganda, Karuma rises to an elevation of 902 meters (2959.32 feet) above sea level. The star of this remarkable wildlife reserve is the thundering Karuma waterfalls, a captivating feature on the majestic Victoria Nile that makes it a must-see attraction on any Ugandan safari. These enchanting waterfalls are conveniently located near the eastern edge of Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest and oldest protected area, just an hour’s drive from Gulu district. Karuma Wildlife Reserve is a vital part of the Murchison Conservation Area, encompassing Murchison Falls National Park, Budongo Forest Reserve, Kaniyo-Pabidi Forest, and Bugungu Wildlife Reserve.

Local legend attributes the creation of the rocks forming these waterfalls to a powerful traditional spirit known as “Karuma,” lending its name to the cascading waters. Travelers heading to Northern Uganda districts can’t help but be awestruck by the breathtaking appearance and powerful sounds of these falls, especially during the rainy seasons when they glisten like snow.

Covering an expansive 820 square kilometers (317 square miles), Karuma Wildlife Reserve was designated as such in 1964. Initially conceived as a buffer zone between Murchison Falls National Park and surrounding villages, its role has shifted over the years. Today, it serves as a buffer for the park against human population pressure rather than wildlife intrusion. Unfortunately, this change has led to significant encroachments by local communities, exacerbated by the establishment of a refugee settlement in Kiryandongo, displacing over 7,000 people and impacting the reserve’s tourism resources.

Karuma Wildlife Reserve, predominantly situated in Kiryandongo district, was traditionally a vast area for large animals such as elephants, buffaloes, and hippos, alongside smaller wildlife species.

Noteworthy wildlife species within the Karuma Wildlife Reserve include Cape Buffaloes, Elephants, Uganda Kobs, Rothschild’s giraffes, vervet monkeys, Olive baboons, Black and white Colobus monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, Topis, Hippos, Oribis, and occasionally Lions and Leopards, among others.

In addition to its diverse wildlife and bird species, the reserve is renowned for the roaring Karuma Falls on the Victoria Nile, providing a perfect setting for sightseeing. Positioned not far from the powerful Murchison Falls, visitors can enjoy two of Uganda’s greatest waterfalls in one safari.

Accommodations within Karuma Falls Wildlife Reserve are readily available at the Red Chili Rest Camp, Karuma Falls Campsites, and other campsites suitable for camping safaris. Access to Karuma Wildlife Reserve is convenient, located on the Masindi-Gulu highway, approximately 110 kilometers (68 miles) northwest of Masindi Town and just 70 kilometers (43 miles) south of Gulu Town. Public buses to Gulu can be boarded at Nakivubo Bus terminal, with fares ranging from Shs 20,000 to Shs 25,000.

In conclusion, Karuma Wildlife Reserve stands out as one of the most captivating destinations for a wildlife safari, boasting intriguing wildlife species like Uganda Kobs, lions, leopards, Buffaloes, and Elephants that have made the reserve their home.

The Karuma Wildlife Reserve is a gem in Uganda’s natural crown, a vast expanse of pristine wilderness that is home to a diverse array of wildlife. Located in the western region of Uganda, adjacent to Murchison Falls National Park, the reserve is a sanctuary for elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, and a myriad of other animals.

The Karuma WR is characterized by its rolling hills, dotted with acacia trees and baobabs. The reserve’s rivers and swamps provide essential water sources for the wildlife, and its grasslands provide ample grazing areas. The reserve is also home to a variety of plant life, including baobab trees, acacia trees, and various shrubs and wildflowers.

The Karuma Wildlife Reserve is a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts, offering opportunities to observe the park’s diverse animal life in their natural habitat. Game drives, bush walks, and boat safaris are all popular activities in the reserve. The reserve is also a great place to birdwatch, with over 400 species of birds recorded in the area.

Highlights of the Karuma Wildlife Reserve:

  • Elephants: The Karuma WR is home to a large population of elephants, which can often be seen grazing in the grasslands or bathing in the rivers.
  • Lions: Lions are also a common sight in the Karuma Wildlife Reserve, and visitors may be lucky enough to spot them hunting or resting in the shade of a tree.
  • Leopards: Leopards are more elusive, but they can sometimes be seen on game drives or bush walks.
  • Cheetahs: Cheetahs are the fastest land animals on Earth, and they can often be seen hunting gazelles and other prey in the reserve.
  • Giraffes: Giraffes are a majestic sight to behold, and they can often be seen grazing in the grasslands or drinking from the rivers.
  • Zebras: Zebras are another common sight in the Karuma Wildlife Reserve, and they can often be seen grazing in herds.

Other activities in the Karuma Wildlife Reserve:

  • Boat safaris: Boat safaris on the Victoria Nile offer a unique perspective of the reserve’s wildlife. Visitors can see hippos, crocodiles, and other aquatic animals up close.
  • Birdwatching: The Karuma Wildlife Reserve is a great place to birdwatch, with over 400 species of birds recorded in the area. Visitors can spot a variety of birds, including eagles, vultures, kingfishers, and sunbirds.
  • Cultural tours: Cultural tours offer visitors the opportunity to learn about the local communities and their way of life. Visitors can visit traditional villages and learn about their customs and traditions.

The Karuma Wildlife Reserve is a truly special place, offering visitors a glimpse of Uganda’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. It is a place where visitors can experience the wonders of the African wilderness and learn about the local communities who live in harmony with nature.